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2021 Traverse Power Steering Assist Failure - Warning Light On

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Ryan M. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Chevrolet Traverse Premier

Hey everyone, I'm having a major issue with my 2021 Chevrolet Traverse Premier. While driving, the power steering suddenly became extremely heavy, almost like it completely failed. A warning light for 'Power Steering Assist Reduced' or 'Service Power Steering' came on in the dash.

It's really difficult to steer now, especially at low speeds. I managed to get it home, but I'm worried about driving it again. The car only has about 40,000 miles on it, so this seems premature for such a critical component.

Has anyone else experienced this with a newer Traverse? What could be the cause? Is this a common problem, and what kind of repair am I looking at? Any insights would be helpful before I take it to the dealer.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:39 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Experiencing a sudden loss of power steering assist in your 2021 Chevrolet Traverse Premier is a serious safety concern and indicates a malfunction within the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. This is not normal for a vehicle with only 40,000 miles.

  1. Do Not Drive Extensively: While you can technically steer the vehicle, the effort required is significantly higher, especially at low speeds, making it unsafe. Avoid driving it more than absolutely necessary until it's repaired.

  2. Potential Causes:

    • EPS Motor Failure: The electric motor that provides the assist can fail. This is a common point of failure in many EPS systems.
    • EPS Control Module Failure: The electronic control unit (ECU) that manages the power steering system can malfunction, leading to a loss of assist. This module interprets sensor inputs and commands the motor.
    • Steering Angle Sensor Issues: A faulty steering angle sensor can provide incorrect data to the EPS control module, causing it to disable assist as a safety measure.
    • Wiring or Connector Problems: Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring and connectors within the EPS system can interrupt communication or power supply, leading to failure.
    • Battery/Charging System Issues: While less direct, a weak battery or an alternator problem could potentially cause the EPS system to receive insufficient voltage, triggering a fault. However, you would likely see other electrical warnings if this were the primary cause.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediate Dealership Visit: Given the safety implications and the vehicle's age, your best course of action is to have your Traverse towed to a Chevrolet dealership. They have the specialized diagnostic equipment (GDS2) required to accurately diagnose EPS system faults.
    • Diagnostic Codes: The dealership will scan for specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the power steering system, which often start with 'C' (Chassis codes), such as C0561 (System Disabled Information), C0545 (Steering Position Sensor Circuit), or codes indicating motor or module faults.
    • Warranty Coverage: Your 2021 Traverse should still be under its 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and potentially the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty (though EPS is typically bumper-to-bumper). Ensure the dealership checks for warranty coverage for this repair, as EPS component replacement can be costly.
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